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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Reading
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$141
Average price
$141
Fastest journey
3 h 53 m
Average duration
3 h 53 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
283 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Preston to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Reading will cost around $141 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $141.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Preston for Reading on Sat, Jun 20, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 283 km distance in an average of 3 h 53 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 53 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 3 h 53 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
9:18 AM3h53Preston1:11 PMReading$1411One-way0 transfers
- 9:18 AM3h53Preston1:11 PMReading$1411One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Preston to Reading
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $74. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 10m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $74, and a flight costs an average of $90.
Distance: 175 miles (283 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$128 Average price | $80 Average price Cheapest | $158 Average price | $73 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 57m Average total duration 3h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 45m Average total duration 8h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 10m Average total duration Fastest 1h 10m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 48m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.8 - 1.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Preston to Reading is a bus with an average price of $80 (€65).
This is compared to other travel options from Preston to Reading:
A bus is $48 (€39) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Preston to Reading costing on average $128 (€105).
A bus is $79 (€64) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Preston to Reading costing on average $158 (€130).
The fastest way to travel from Preston to Reading is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 10m.
Other travel options to Reading take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 27m.
Bus takes on average 8h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Preston and Reading including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Reading among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 21m sooner (3h 27m by train vs 3h 48m by car). Tickets start at around $128 (€105) compared to roughly $73 (€60) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Preston to Reading train times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Reading trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
W33970+ W34706+ Tube from London Euston to London Paddington | On time 12:00 PM Preston station (PRE) | 3h23 | 3:23 PM Reading station (RDG) | 2 transfers | |
 C00578+W34634+Tube from London Euston to London Paddington | On time 12:05 PM Preston station (PRE) | 4h06 | 4:11 PM Reading station (RDG) | 2 transfers | |
C01362+ G01024 | On time 12:18 PM Preston station (PRE) | 4h22 | 4:40 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1 transfer | |
| C01362 · W33894+Tube from London Euston to London Paddington+W34634 | On time 12:18 PM Preston station (PRE) | 3h53 | 4:11 PM Reading station (RDG) | 3 transfers | |
| W33973+Tube from London Euston to London Paddington+W34712 | On time 1:00 PM Preston station (PRE) | 3h23 | 4:23 PM Reading station (RDG) | 2 transfers | |
| W34060+W29935 | On time 1:17 PM Preston station (PRE) | 3h58 | 5:15 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1 transfer | |
| W34060 · W33949+Tube from London Euston to London Paddington+W34637 | On time 1:17 PM Preston station (PRE) | 3h54 | 5:11 PM Reading station (RDG) | 3 transfers | |
| W34172+Tube from London Euston to London Paddington+W34719 | On time 2:00 PM Preston station (PRE) | 3h23 | 5:23 PM Reading station (RDG) | 2 transfers | |
| W34160+G01186 | On time 2:18 PM Preston station (PRE) | 3h53 | 6:11 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1 transfer | |
| W34063+Tube from London Euston to London Paddington+Y15431 | On time 3:00 PM Preston station (PRE) | 3h21 | 6:21 PM Reading station (RDG) | 2 transfers | |
| W34124+W29937 | On time 3:18 PM Preston station (PRE) | 3h47 | 7:05 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1 transfer | |
| W33889+Tube from London Euston to London Paddington+Y15434 | On time 4:00 PM Preston station (PRE) | 3h21 | 7:21 PM Reading station (RDG) | 2 transfers | |
| C01365+G01188 | On time 4:18 PM Preston station (PRE) | 3h50 | 8:08 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1 transfer | |
| W34050+Tube from London Euston to London Paddington+W34737 | On time 4:59 PM Preston station (PRE) | 3h24 | 8:23 PM Reading station (RDG) | 2 transfers | |
| W00587+G01039 | On time 5:18 PM Preston station (PRE) | 4h21 | 9:39 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1 transfer | |
| W00587 · W33917+Tube from London Euston to London Paddington+Y15439 | On time 5:18 PM Preston station (PRE) | 3h58 | 9:16 PM Reading station (RDG) | 3 transfers | |
| W34020+Tube from London Euston to London Paddington+G14971 | On time 6:00 PM Preston station (PRE) | 3h25 | 9:25 PM Reading station (RDG) | 2 transfers | |
| W33999+G01042 | On time 6:18 PM Preston station (PRE) | 4h22 | 10:40 PM Reading station (RDG) | 1 transfer | |
| W33999 · W34121+Tube from London Euston to London Paddington+Y15440 | On time 6:18 PM Preston station (PRE) | 3h58 | 10:16 PM Reading station (RDG) | 3 transfers | |
| W34200+Tube from London Euston to London Paddington+W34929 | On time 7:07 PM Preston station (PRE) | 3h34 | 10:41 PM Reading station (RDG) | 2 transfers | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Preston to Reading by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
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Jun 26
Jun 26
Why should you book Preston to Reading trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as CrossCountry or Caledonian Sleeper offer trains services from Preston to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Reading.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or Caledonian Sleeper to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Reading.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Reading.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or Caledonian Sleeper to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Reading.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Reading.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Reading run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $105 (€86) but you can travel from only $74 (€60) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 02:24, the last at 21:18. The fastest train covers the 175 miles (283 km) distance in 3h 47m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $74 (€60)
Distance 175 miles (283 km) |
Average train duration 3h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price $105 (€86) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 47m |
First train 2:24 AM |
Last train 9:18 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 5 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $74 (€60)
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Caledonian Sleeper from Preston to Reading trainsAvanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Caledonian Sleeper trains will get you between Preston and Reading from $74 (€60). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Avanti West Coast
About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 47m
Cheapest Price
$105 (€86)
Avanti West Coast frequency
24 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 17m
Cheapest Price
$145 (€119)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
Caledonian Sleeper
About
The Caledonian Sleeper is a train service operating in the United Kingdom. It offers overnight journeys between London, Scotland, the North of England and Wales. The service is operated by Serco and consists of two types of trains: the Classic Sleeper and the Lowland Sleeper. The Classic Sleeper offers comfortable sleeping berths, while the Lowland Sleeper offers reclining seats. Both trains offer onboard facilities such as Wi-Fi, power sockets, and complimentary tea and coffee.Ticket types include Standard, First Class and Solo. Standard tickets offer access to the lounge car, while First Class tickets include access to the lounge car and complimentary breakfast. Solo tickets are available for single travellers and offer access to the lounge car and a private sleeping berth. The most popular routes for the Caledonian Sleeper are London to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. Passengers can also travel from London to Aberdeen, Fort William and Dundee.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 49m
Cheapest Price
$175 (€143)
Caledonian Sleeper frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in each carriage and under beds in sleeping compartments
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type and timing before departure
Refund
Full refund provided if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Complimentary breakfast for all guests. Club Car serves dinner and drinks. Room service available for sleeping car passengers
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for sleeping car passengers. Optional seat reservations available for seated carriages
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Accessible rooms available, wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and staff assistance
Pets
Small pets allowed in sleeping compartments for a fee. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
FAQs: Trains from Preston to Reading
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Reading by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Reading, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Preston to Reading can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $105 (€86), while the average price is around $128 (€105).
The train from Preston to Reading takes 3h 47m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Preston to Reading leaves at 2:24 AM.
The distance by train from Preston to Reading is 175 miles (283 km).
The last train from Preston to Reading leaves at 9:18 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Preston to Reading.
There is no direct train service currently available from Preston to Reading.
Yes, there is a night train from Preston to Reading.
The train station in Preston that goes to Reading is Preston station (PRE), which connects to Reading station (RDG).
The cheapest way to get from Preston to Reading is by bus, with a cost of around $74 (€60).
The train journey from Preston to Reading offers some scenic views, particularly as it travels through the rolling countryside and picturesque landscapes of the North West and the Midlands, though much of the journey also passes through urban and suburban areas.
A day trip from Preston to Reading is not feasible as the journey time is 3h 47m. Trains run 5 times per day.
Two to three days are typically sufficient to explore the main attractions and experience the cultural highlights of Reading.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Reading.
Since neither Preston nor Reading are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Reading include London, Oxford, Bracknell, Slough, Maidenhead.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Reading among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Reading, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Common scams include overcharging by taxis and unofficial tour guides. Staying vigilant in busy spots and using licensed services helps ensure safety.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Preston to Reading
Preston
Reading
The major train station for departures in Preston is Preston. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Preston for your trip from Preston to Reading.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:30 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Friday
- 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM Saturday
- 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
6Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24 hours, located adjacent to the station with access from Butler Street
Dining
- Rise
- The Olive Tree Brasserie
- Turtle Bay
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- £0.30
Hotel
- Holiday Inn Express Preston - South
- Delta Hotels Preston
- Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-3 for long-distance services
- Hall 2: platforms 4-6 for regional and local services
Public transit options for Preston
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: Northern, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express services
The major train station for arrivals in Reading is Reading. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Reading for your journey to Reading from Preston.
Amenities at train station
ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike RentalCar Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:15 - 22:45 Saturday 05:30 - 22:45 Sunday 07:15 - 22:45 Please note: Reservations and tickets requiring reservations are sold at the following times only: Mon - Sat 08:00 - 20:00 and Sun 09:00 - 20:00
Parking
- Car Park: Multi Storey Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: platforms can be reached via lift and bridge, ticket office is step free
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible public telephones: Accessible low-level Pay Phone is available at the station main concourse. Please request staff assistance if you need to
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxi are available at the station entrance. please request staff assistance if you need to
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office and at the car park
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: Toilets are located on Station Platforms and in The Brunel Arcade building
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Front of station, underground short stay car park and long stay car park
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for Reading
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the North side of the station
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:30 - 10:45 Saturday - Sunday Closed
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access note: Step Free Category B3 - This station has a degree of step free access but only to Platform 1 and only if accessed via Tilehurst Road. Otherwise this station can be classified as Category C. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available. Please request staff assistance
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: No
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for Reading West
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Towards Reading: Bus Stop on Oxford Road under Railway Bridge. Heading away from Reading Bus Stop on Oxford Road, outside McDonalds.
Most popular train connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Reading and Preston
Most popular train connections to Reading
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